Asati and Ooro to lead Shujaa ahead of World Rugby Sevens Series return

Samwel Asati (right) of Kenya Sevens in action against Uganda. [KRU]

Shujaa head coach Kevin Wambua has unveiled a 13-man squad for the opening leg of the 2024-2025 HSBC World Rugby Sevens Series in Dubai, with Olympians Samuel Asati and George Ooro named as co-captains.

The Dubai Sevens will run from November 30 to December 1, marking Kenya Sevens' much-anticipated return to the global stage.

Key players in the squad include Kelvin Wekesa, William Mwanji, and Brian Mutua, while Olympians Chrisant Ojwang, Nygel Amaitsa, and the electrifying Patrick Odongo bring experience and pace. Newcomer Brayan Ondego will make his debut in Dubai, injecting fresh talent into the lineup.

The full squad comprises Kevin Wekesa, George Ooro (co-captain), William Mwanji, Brian Mutua, Dennis Abukuse, Samuel Asati (co-captain), Nygel Amaitsa, Chrisant Ojwang, Patrick Odongo, Festus Shiasi, Benson Salem, Floyd Wabwire, and Brayan Ondego.

Coach Wambua emphasized the team's readiness for the challenge. "We have a balanced squad blending youth and experience. Asati and Ooro's leadership will be pivotal as we aim for a strong start in Dubai," he stated.

However, Shujaa will miss the services of Vincent Onyala and Anthony Omondi who are not part of the team due to their respective contract issues.

Following the Dubai leg, Shujaa will immediately head to Cape Town for the second round of the series.

The team departs Nairobi on Monday, November 25, with high hopes of reclaiming their position among the world's rugby sevens elite.

Shujaa fans will be eager to see how the team performs under the dual leadership of Asati and Ooro, especially with key players and debutants poised to make their mark on the international stage.

Shujaa squad

1.Kevin Wekesa
2.George Ooro(CC)
3.William Mwanji
4.Brian Mutua
5.Dennis Abukuse
6.Samuel Asati(CC)
7.Nygel Amaitsa
8.Chrisant Ojwang
9.Patrick Odongo
10.Festus Shiasi
11.Benson Salem
12.Floyd Wabwire